Portable sputum aspirator

Abstract

The invention discloses a portable sputum aspirator which comprises a manual suction device, a sputum suction tube and an air tube. An elastic air bag located at the position corresponding to the soft palate is arranged on the sputum suction pipe, and the air bag is communicated with a suction device through an air pipe. In the initial suction stage, the air bag expands to push the soft palate to be lifted, the nasopharynx channel is closed, and sputum is prevented from flowing back into the nasal cavity. The manual suction device is of a piston structure, the air bag inflation function and the negative pressure sputum suction function are sequentially completed in the push-pull process, and structural integrated control is achieved. The device has the advantages of being simple in structure, convenient to use, high in sputum suction efficiency, high in operation safety and the like, and is particularly suitable for bedside, first aid and home nursing scenes in a power-free environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of medical devices, specifically a portable suction device. Background Technology

[0002] Suctioning devices, as basic emergency and airway cleaning equipment, are widely used in hospitals, community health institutions, and home care to remove sputum, secretions, or foreign objects from a patient's mouth, throat, or airway, maintaining airway patency. Timely and effective suctioning is especially important for patients who have difficulty coughing up sputum, are unconscious, or are bedridden for extended periods, as it helps prevent lung infections and improve ventilation.

[0003] Existing sputum suction devices are mainly divided into two categories: electric sputum suction devices and manual sputum suction devices. Among them, electric sputum suction devices have stable suction power and are suitable for hospital environments, but they are large in size, dependent on power supply, and inconvenient for bedside or emergency use; while manual sputum suction devices have a simple structure, are easy to carry, and are suitable for portable applications. They often adopt piston, balloon, or squeeze bottle structures, and use negative pressure to draw sputum into the collection chamber.

[0004] Although traditional suction devices have relatively mature structural designs for negative pressure suction, they still have the following technical shortcomings: During suctioning, sputum can easily flow back into the nasal cavity: Because the nasal cavity and pharynx are anatomically connected, during suctioning, especially when the patient coughs, holds their breath, or experiences suction disturbances, sputum or bacterial secretions may flow back from the oral passage into the nasal cavity or even the middle ear, leading to secondary infections such as sinusitis and otitis media.

[0005] Dispersed negative pressure path and insufficient suction efficiency: In the structure where the mouth and nose are connected, part of the negative pressure suction force is leaked to the nasal cavity during suctioning, resulting in a non-concentrated suction force distribution and reduced suction efficiency. Especially for patients with thick sputum or severe blockage, there are often problems of not being able to suction out completely or not being able to aspirate.

[0006] It is impossible to achieve sputum suction path control and auxiliary structure coordination in a portable structure: If it is necessary to control the opening and closing of the airway, adjust the bending direction, or cooperate with the structural support in traditional sputum suction devices, an external electric control or independent air supply device is often required, resulting in complex structure, difficulty in control, and unsuitability for disposable products or outdoor use.

[0007] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a technical solution that is simple in structure, easy to operate, can achieve synchronous closure control of the nasopharyngeal passage within a portable suction device, and has good suction efficiency, path stability and patient tolerance, in order to solve the above problems and broaden the practical application boundaries of manual suction devices. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a portable suction device that, through the setting of a soft palate sealing airbag and the phased control of the piston stroke, achieves a series of unexpected technical effects such as automatically closing the nasopharyngeal passage before suctioning, improving suctioning efficiency, reducing cross-infection, alleviating operational discomfort, enhancing intubation stability and portability, etc., and has significant innovation and practical value.

[0009] The technical solution adopted in this invention is as follows: A portable suction device includes a manual suction device, a suction tube, and a trachea; a long, elastic air bladder is fitted onto the suction tube corresponding to the soft palate; one end of the suction tube is connected to the manual suction device; one end of the trachea is connected to the elastic air bladder, and the other end is connected to the manual suction device; in the initial stage of suctioning sputum by the manual suction device, the elastic air bladder is inflated through the trachea, causing it to expand, which in turn causes the soft palate to rise and close the nasopharyngeal passage.

[0010] The manual suction device includes a cylindrical cylinder and a piston disposed within the cylindrical cylinder; the piston is vertically and slidably fitted with the cylindrical cylinder; the upper end of the cylindrical cylinder is provided with a sputum inlet, the side near the upper part is provided with a sputum outlet, the side near the lower part is provided with an air inlet, and the lower end is provided with a ventilation hole; the suction tube is detachably connected to the sputum inlet; the trachea is detachably connected to the air inlet.

[0011] The sputum discharge port is detachably equipped with a plug.

[0012] Within the cylindrical cylinder, multiple stop rods are positioned above the piston to limit its initial position.

[0013] The stop rod is magnetically attracted to the piston.

[0014] The piston, after being stopped by the stop rod, is initially positioned level with the sputum discharge port.

[0015] The air inlet is located below the piston in its initial position; the distance from the air inlet to the bottom of the cylindrical body is slightly less than the thickness of the piston.

[0016] The inlet is equipped with a first one-way valve that allows sputum to enter the cylindrical cylinder; the top of the cylindrical cylinder is equipped with a second one-way valve that allows air to escape.

[0017] One of the push-pull rods is vertically and slidably sealed to the cylindrical body, with one end connected to the piston and the other end fitted with a handle.

[0018] A method of using a portable suction device includes the following steps: Step 1, Assembly Preparation: Securely connect one end of the suction tube to the sputum inlet at the top of the cylindrical body of the manual suction device; connect one end of the trachea to the air inlet at the bottom of the cylindrical body. Step 2, Positioning and Insertion: The operator slowly inserts the suction catheter into the oral cavity and guides it into the trachea, with the elastic cuff positioned below the soft palate; Step 3: Start suctioning and inflate the air bladder: The operator pushes down the piston with the push-pull lever, pushing some airflow out through the ventilation tube and most of the gas into the elastic air bladder through the trachea, causing the elastic air bladder to inflate and push the soft palate upward, causing the soft palate to close the nasopharyngeal passage; during this process, the cylindrical cylinder above the piston generates negative pressure, which loosens the sputum through the suction tube. Step 4: Continue to press down to suction: As the piston continues to press down, the inflation port is closed, the elastic air bladder stops inflating, and all the gas is discharged from the ventilation tube. As the piston continues to press down, the suction tube begins to suck up the sputum from the patient's throat and draws the sputum into the cylindrical cylinder through the inlet. Step 5: Pull back the piston: After the piston reaches the bottom of the cylindrical body, the operator pulls the piston up using the push-pull rod. The air in the cylindrical body above the piston is discharged through the second one-way valve; negative pressure is generated in the cylindrical body below the piston. When the inflation port reappears, the air in the elastic bladder is extracted, causing the elastic bladder to return to its flattened state, the soft palate to return to its original position, and the nasopharyngeal passage to reopen. When the piston is pulled back to the stop bar, one suction cycle is completed. Step Six: Repeat the suctioning cycle: The operator repeatedly performs steps three through five to achieve suctioning; Step 7: After suctioning, remove the plug at the suction port and drain the sputum from the cylindrical cylinder for further treatment.

[0019] In summary, due to the adoption of the above technical solution, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: This invention achieves several synergistic control and clinical advantages in structure and function that cannot be achieved by setting an elastic air bladder on the suction tube corresponding to the soft palate position and driving the air bladder to expand during the initial suction phase of the manual suction device, so as to lift the soft palate and close the nasopharyngeal passage.

[0020] First, the active inflation structure of the elastic air bladder effectively solves the problem of sputum or secretions potentially flowing back into the nasal cavity during traditional suctioning due to coughing, choking, or negative pressure disturbance. The air bladder inflates in the early stages of suctioning, causing the soft palate to rise and adhere to the posterior pharyngeal wall, forming a closed barrier in the nasopharyngeal passage. This significantly reduces complications such as rhinitis, sinusitis, and otitis media caused by sputum reflux, making it particularly suitable for patients at high risk of upper respiratory tract infections.

[0021] Secondly, the soft palate closure structure reduces the risk of cross-contamination during suctioning from the source. Traditional oral suctioning connects to the nasal cavity, which can easily lead to backflow or turbulence under negative pressure, increasing the possibility of bacterial spread in the upper airway. This invention physically closes the nasopharyngeal connection, achieving non-invasive artificial blockage, effectively reducing the risk of cross-infection and improving the biosafety of the suctioning process.

[0022] Secondly, after the nasopharyngeal passage is closed, the negative pressure generated during suctioning is no longer dispersed in the nasal cavity, but is concentrated on the areas where sputum accumulates, such as the hypopharynx and trachea. This makes the suction more focused, improves suction efficiency, and avoids the dilution of suction by the aspiration of air. It is particularly suitable for treating cases with thick sputum that is difficult to expel.

[0023] Furthermore, the air bladder structure in this invention is designed with directional deformation capabilities to meet physiological and anatomical requirements. Multiple elastic filaments are embedded on the side of the air bladder closest to the tongue, inducing it to bend towards the tongue upon inflation. Due to its thinner front and thicker rear structure, the rear portion expands more significantly than the front, thereby enhancing its fit with the soft palate and posterior pharyngeal wall. The anatomical structure of the transition zone between the oral cavity and pharynx allows for automatic adjustment and positioning of the inflated elastic air bladder, resulting in more accurate alignment with the soft palate. This design not only improves the soft palate closure effect but also creates a multi-point positioning structure at the end of the suction catheter, helping to maintain the stability of the suction head during suctioning and preventing insertion deviation or tip slippage.

[0024] In addition, the cushioning effect of the air bladder can reduce the direct stimulation of the pharynx by the suction catheter, alleviate discomfort such as choking and nausea that may occur during suctioning, and improve patient tolerance, especially suitable for patients who are conscious or have a sensitive pharyngeal reflex. At the same time, the periodic expansion of the air bladder stimulates the soft palate, which also has the potential to assist in the rehabilitation of soft palate muscle tone and pharyngeal muscle coordination, and can be applied to the adjunctive treatment of swallowing disorders in patients with neurological damage.

[0025] In terms of operation, this invention adopts a manual suction device to integrate the control of the airbag inflation and negative pressure suction process, realizing the integrated process of airbag expansion and suction. The structure is logically clear and easy to operate, requiring no additional control components, which significantly improves portability and applicability, and is suitable for various environments such as bedside, emergency, and home care.

[0026] In summary, this invention achieves a series of unexpected technical effects, such as automatically closing the nasopharyngeal passage before suctioning, improving suctioning efficiency, reducing cross-infection, alleviating operational discomfort, and enhancing intubation stability and portability, through the setting of the soft palate sealing airbag and the phased control of the piston stroke. It has significant innovation and practical value. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the initial state of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the elastic airbag of the present invention starting to inflate; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the elastic airbag of the present invention when it is fully inflated; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the piston continuing to press down to suction sputum according to the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the manual suction device during piston retraction of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic radial cross-sectional view of the inflated elastic airbag. Figure 7 This is a schematic axial cross-sectional view of the inflated elastic airbag. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of Example 3.

[0028] The diagram shows the following markings: 1. Manual suction device; 10. Ventilation orifice; 11. Cylindrical cylinder; 12. Piston; 13. Inlet port; 14. Outlet port; 15. Inflation port; 16. Plug; 17. Stop bar; 18. First one-way valve; 19. Second one-way valve; 21. Hollow tube; 22. Suction port; 23. Suction tube; 2. Suction tube; 3. Trachea; 4. Elastic air bladder; 41. Elastic wire; 5. Push-pull rod; 51. Handle; 6. Soft palate. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0030] Example 1: See Figures 1 to 7 This invention relates to a portable suction device, including a manual suction device 1, a suction tube 2, and a trachea 3.

[0031] One end of the suction tube 2 is detachably connected to the inlet 13 at the upper end of the manual suction device 1, for insertion into the oral cavity and reaching deep into the pharyngeal region. A long, elastic air bladder 4 is fitted onto the tube at a position corresponding to the soft palate 6. The length of the elastic air bladder 4 is parallel to that of the suction tube 2, and it is preferably made of silicone or elastic polyurethane, possessing good flexibility and resilience. One end of the elastic air bladder 4 is connected to the inflation port 15 of the manual suction device 1 via a trachea 3, while the other end is closed. One end of the trachea 3 is connected to the air bladder 4, and the other end is connected to the lower inflation port 15 of the cylindrical cylinder 11, for guiding gas to the air bladder 4 during the initial stage of suction, causing it to inflate.

[0032] In order to make the elastic airbag 4 bend towards the tongue side when it inflates so as to better fit the underside of the soft palate 6, in this embodiment, multiple elastic wires 41 are embedded parallel to the length of the side of the elastic airbag 4 near the tongue side. This is used to suppress the expansion of this side, so that the airbag will be deflected in a specific direction when it inflates, thereby forming an upper support for the soft palate 6.

[0033] Furthermore, in order to make the airbag have an asymmetrical bulging shape during longitudinal expansion, the wall thickness of the elastic airbag 4 facing the front of the oral cavity (i.e., facing the oral cavity entrance) is greater than the wall thickness facing the back of the pharynx. During the inflation process, the posterior part expands more than the anterior part. With the guidance of the elastic wire 41, the airbag as a whole deflects towards the tongue and the upper back, thereby causing the soft palate 6 to rise and fit against the posterior pharyngeal wall, thus closing the nasopharyngeal passage.

[0034] The manual suction device 1 includes a cylindrical cylinder 11 and a piston 12 disposed inside it. The piston 12 is sealed to the cylindrical cylinder 11 and can slide back and forth along the cylinder axis. The upper end of the cylindrical cylinder 11 is provided with a sputum inlet 13 for connecting to the suction tube 2; the upper side wall is provided with a sputum outlet 14 for discharging the suctioned sputum; the lower side wall is provided with an inflation port 15, which is connected to the elastic air bag 4 through the trachea 3; and the bottom of the cylinder is also provided with a ventilation hole 10 for exhausting air.

[0035] To prevent sputum from being discharged prematurely before the suction cycle is completed, a plug 16 is detachably installed on the sputum discharge port 14 for sealing and drainage after the operation is completed.

[0036] To limit the initial position of the piston 12 and control its working stroke, multiple stop rods 17 are provided inside the cylindrical cylinder 11 and above the piston 12. The stop rods 17 and the piston 12 can be fixed by a magnetic attraction structure, so that when the piston 12 is initially limited, its height is basically the same as that of the sputum discharge port 14, ensuring that the volume of the cylindrical cylinder is minimized and the sealing is good at the beginning of operation.

[0037] The inflation port 15 is located below the initial position of the piston 12, and its distance to the bottom of the cylinder is slightly less than the thickness of the piston body. This ensures that when the piston 12 is pressed down in the initial stage, the inflation port 15 is airtightly blocked from the beginning of the piston 12 to the bottom of the cylindrical cylinder 11, and the inflation port 15 is always closed, ensuring that the elastic airbag 4 remains in an inflated state.

[0038] Furthermore, a first one-way valve 18 is provided at the sputum inlet 13, which only allows sputum to enter the cylindrical cylinder 11; a second one-way valve 19 is provided at the top of the cylindrical cylinder, which only allows air to be discharged from the cylinder, ensuring the formation of negative pressure and unidirectional airflow during manual suctioning.

[0039] To facilitate operation, the upper part of the piston 12 is connected to the outside via a push-pull rod 5. The push-pull rod 5 can slide vertically, and its upper end is equipped with a handle 51. The operator can drive the piston to reciprocate by moving the handle up and down with one hand, thereby completing the suction and airbag control functions.

[0040] A method of using a portable suction device includes the following steps: Step 1, Assembly Preparation: See Figure 1 Securely connect one end of the suction tube 2 to the sputum inlet 13 at the upper end of the cylindrical body 11 of the manual suction device 1; connect one end of the trachea 3 to the air inlet 15 at the lower part of the cylindrical body 11; confirm that the plug 16 at the sputum outlet 14 is properly installed to prevent sputum leakage. Step 2, Positioning and Insertion: The operator slowly inserts the suction tube 2 into the oral cavity and guides it into the trachea, with the elastic air bag 4 positioned below the soft palate 6. Step 3: Begin suction and inflate the airbag: See Figure 2 and 3 The operator presses down the piston 12 using the push-pull rod 5. Since the inflation port 15 at the bottom of the cylindrical cylinder 11 is located below the piston, some airflow is pushed out through the ventilation tube 10, and most of the gas enters the elastic airbag 4 through the trachea 3, causing the elastic airbag 4 to inflate. Due to the structural design of the elastic airbag 4, it bends towards the tongue under the action of the embedded elastic wire 41, improving support stability. At the same time, the rear of the elastic airbag 4 expands more than the front during the expansion process, thereby pushing the soft palate 6 upward, causing the soft palate 6 to close the nasopharyngeal passage and prevent sputum from entering the nasal cavity. During this process, the cylindrical cylinder 11 above the piston 12 generates negative pressure, which loosens the sputum through the suction tube 2. Step 4: Continue applying pressure to suction sputum: See Figure 4 As piston 12 continues to press down, after exceeding the inflation stage, the inflation port 15 is closed, the elastic air bladder 4 no longer inflates, and all the gas is discharged from the ventilation tube 10. As piston 12 continues to press down, suction tube 2 begins to suction sputum from the patient's pharynx and sucks the sputum into the cylindrical cylinder 11 through the sputum inlet 13. Step 5: Pull back the piston: See Figure 5 The operator pulls up the piston 12 using the push-pull rod 5, and the air in the cylindrical cylinder 11 above the piston 12 is discharged through the second one-way valve 19; a negative pressure is generated in the cylindrical cylinder 11 below the piston 12. When the inflation port 15 re-exposes, the air in the elastic airbag 4 is extracted, causing the elastic airbag 4 to return to its flattened state, the soft palate 6 to return, and the nasopharyngeal passage to be reopened; when the piston 12 is pulled back to a stop bar 17, one suction cycle is completed. Step Six: Repeat the suctioning cycle: The operator repeatedly performs steps three through five to achieve suctioning; Step 7: After suctioning, remove the plug 16 at the sputum discharge port 14, and drain and treat the sputum in the cylindrical cylinder 11. Example 2:

[0041] Based on Embodiment 1, a pressure sensing module is installed on the passage of the trachea 3 or near the inflation port 15 of the manual suction device 1 to detect the internal pressure of the elastic airbag 4 in real time; a signal processing and prompting module is electrically connected to the pressure sensing module 6, and the prompting module is configured to output at least two different prompting signals according to the changes in the pressure data.

[0042] On the outer wall of the suction tube 2, depth markings based on the lips or teeth are printed, and the numerical range of the markings is adapted to the anatomical depth of the pharynx in adults or children.

[0043] Furthermore, the pressure sensing module is a miniature piezoresistive or capacitive pressure sensor.

[0044] Furthermore, the signal processing and prompting module includes a microprocessor and a prompting unit, wherein the prompting unit is a tri-color LED and / or a miniature buzzer. The microprocessor has a pre-stored pressure change algorithm that can identify plateau inflection points in the pressure curve.

[0045] Furthermore, the depth scale markings have clear visual distinctions in the intervals corresponding to the ideal position below the soft palate, such as darker colors or symbol markings.

[0046] The working process of this embodiment is as follows: ① Initial preparation and insertion: After connecting the suction catheter 2 to the manual suction device 1, the operator slowly inserts the suction catheter 2 into the pharynx through the mouth. At this time, the pressure sensing module 6 starts working to monitor the base pressure of the air bag 4.

[0047] ② Intelligent Positioning Stage: The operator begins to slowly press down piston 12, causing airbag 4 to slowly inflate. Simultaneously, the suction tube 2 continues to be gently pushed forward. During this process, the operator observes the status of the prompt module 7.

[0048] Finding the positioning point: When the front end of the airbag 4 arrives and begins to contact the soft palate, the softness and flexibility of the soft palate tissue cause a characteristic change in the airbag inflation resistance, resulting in a clear "plateau inflection point" in the internal pressure curve.

[0049] Signal indication: The microprocessor in the signal processing and indication module 7 analyzes the pressure data in real time. Once the characteristic inflection point is detected, it immediately drives the indication unit to issue a "positioning successful" signal. For example, the LED light changes from flashing yellow to solid green, or the buzzer emits a long beep. This signal objectively indicates that the airbag is in the ideal position below the soft palate.

[0050] ③ Depth Calibration and Recording: Upon receiving the successful positioning signal, the operator immediately stops pushing the suction catheter 2. At this time, observe the depth scale mark 21 on the suction catheter 2 exposed outside the mouth and record the scale value at this moment. This scale mark represents the personalized ideal intubation depth for this patient.

[0051] ④ Complete suctioning and subsequent procedures: After positioning, the operator continues the suctioning procedure as described in the original instruction manual. In subsequent suctioning cycles or the next nursing session, the operator no longer needs to rely on pressure feedback; simply insert suction tube 2 to the previously recorded depth to quickly and accurately reproduce the ideal positioning, greatly improving operational efficiency and consistency.

[0052] This embodiment transforms the ineffable "feel" into clear visual / auditory signals by combining electronic pressure feedback with physical depth calibration, significantly lowering the operational threshold and enabling non-professional nursing staff to perform the procedure safely and accurately. A single positioning operation determines the optimal intubation depth for each patient, resolving positioning challenges caused by individual anatomical differences and ensuring consistent nursing outcomes. It effectively avoids severe pharyngeal reflexes caused by excessively deep intubation irritating the larynx, significantly improving patient tolerance and comfort, and reducing the risk of operation-related complications. The electronic module employs a low-power design, powered by a button battery, without affecting the portability and reliability of the original manual device, keeping costs under control and facilitating widespread adoption. Example 3:

[0053] See Figure 8 In intensive care or patients with dysphagia, small amounts of potentially harmful secretions or reflux often accumulate in the pharyngeal recesses, such as the piriform recess, easily leading to microaspiration and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Traditional suction catheters are ineffective at effectively clearing these "blind spots." Simultaneously, subglottic secretion retention is also a high-risk area.

[0054] The difference between this embodiment and the suction device in Embodiment 1 is that: Suction catheter 2 is no longer a single-lumen tube, but a double-lumen tube. The main lumen A continues its original function, used for powerful suctioning of deep sputum. A new independent micro-lumen B is added, with a diameter much smaller than that of the main lumen.

[0055] At the head of the suction catheter, on the posterior side wall of the main suction port used for deep suctioning, which is closer to the operator, an arc-shaped, outwardly convex hollow tube 21 is set. The hollow tube 21 is connected to the micro-cavity B. Multiple micropores with a diameter of about 0.5-1 mm are opened on the hollow tube 21. Its position is designed to be precisely aligned with the piriform recess in the pharynx. The micro-cavity B, the hollow tube 21, and the micropores are specifically used to aspirate residual fluid accumulated in the high-risk area of ​​the pharynx, the piriform recess, in the initial stage.

[0056] On the cylindrical cylinder 11, the original sputum inlet 13 is moved down to the initial state and is covered by the thickness of the piston 12. During the early stage of the piston 12 moving down, the sputum inlet 13 is always covered. A suction port 22 is provided on the side wall of the cylindrical cylinder 11 above the sputum inlet 13. The suction port 22 is not covered by the piston 12. The suction port 22 is connected to the micro-cavity through the suction tube 23.

[0057] During the downward movement of piston 12, a negative pressure is generated above piston 12 in the early stage, and suction port 22 aspirates residual fluid accumulated in the piriform recess, a high-risk area of ​​the pharynx; a positive pressure is generated below piston 12, which inflates elastic cuff 4; during this process, sputum inlet 13 is blocked by piston 12 and sputum suction is not performed; as piston 12 continues to move downward, it blocks inflation port 15, elastic cuff 4 stops inflating, and sputum inlet 13 is exposed, and sputum suction begins at sputum inlet 13.

[0058] The most significant contribution of this embodiment lies in its proactive infection prevention capability. Traditional suction devices, due to the connection between the mouth, nose, and pharynx, pose a risk of sputum reflux leading to sinusitis and otitis media. This invention fundamentally solves this problem through a clever timing design.

[0059] In the initial stage of the procedure, the downward movement of the piston simultaneously drives two key processes: First, the positive pressure generated by the piston's downward movement inflates the elastic bladder, precisely lifting the soft palate and creating a physical barrier that closes the nasopharyngeal passage before suctioning begins. This barrier effectively prevents sputum or bacteria-laden secretions from flowing back into the nasal cavity, significantly reducing the risk of cross-infection and complications.

[0060] Simultaneously, the negative pressure generated during this stage is preferentially guided to a micropore on the posterolateral side of the suction catheter for precise aspiration of residual secretions from high-risk areas of the throat (pyriform recess). This "pre-cleaning" mechanism can remove risk sources that lead to microaspiration and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) before deep suctioning, achieving a qualitative change from passive sputum removal to proactive infection prevention.

[0061] The aforementioned complex functional coordination is achieved through extremely simple mechanical logic. The inflation / deflation of the airbag and the generation / release of negative pressure are all integrated into a single piston push-pull action, forming a unified timing control. The operator completes the entire process of "closure-pre-cleaning-deep suctioning" without any additional steps. This makes the device powerful yet compact and logically intuitive, making it extremely suitable for non-professional or emergency scenarios such as home care and first aid.

[0062] This invention has shown significant clinical efficacy and wide applicability. The following are some representative cases: Case 1: A 68-year-old male patient underwent endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation in the ICU due to severe pneumonia and respiratory failure. He had a weak cough reflex and a large accumulation of secretions in his pharynx and subglottic region, making him a high-risk patient for VAP. Nursing records showed that despite suctioning every 2 hours using a traditional electric suction device, his pulmonary infection markers (procalcitonin, white blood cell count) continued to rise, and chest X-ray showed a new infiltrative shadow in the right lower lung. The clinical diagnosis was new-onset VAP.

[0063] Traditional suction catheters are ineffective at removing subglottic secretions and residues accumulated in the pyriform crypts. These secretions, containing high concentrations of bacteria, are a "reservoir" of VAP (vaginal acute respiratory infection) and are easily carried into the lower respiratory tract by the passage of the suction catheter or negative pressure disturbance, causing new infections.

[0064] The nursing team switched to the suction device of Embodiment 3 of this invention (with pharyngeal pre-cleaning function). When disconnecting the ventilator and performing airway care according to protocol, the procedure was as follows: Insert the suction catheter into the pharynx, ensuring the lateral micro-orifice is aligned with the pyriform recess. Slowly press down the piston initially; the cuff inflates and closes the nasopharynx. Simultaneously, gentle negative pressure acts exclusively on the micro-orifice, allowing caregivers to observe a small amount of cloudy, viscous secretions being suctioned from the pyriform recess through the transparent extension tube. This step completes the "targeted removal" of the VAP risk source.

[0065] As the piston continues to press down, the system switches to a powerful suction mode, effectively clearing sputum from deep within the trachea.

[0066] Within 72 hours of adopting the proposed method, Mr. Zhang's lung infection markers began to steadily decline. A follow-up chest X-ray a week later showed significant absorption of the infiltrative shadow in his right lower lung. He did not experience any new VAP until he was weaned off the ventilator.

[0067] Compared with traditional suction devices, this invention uses a "pre-cleaning" mechanism to shift the prevention of VAP from passive antibacterial treatment to active removal of infection sources, achieving an unexpected effect of significantly reducing the incidence of VAP.

[0068] Case 2: Female patient 2, 75 years old, suffered from dysphagia after a stroke and was cared for at home by her daughter, Ms. Wang. Ms. Wang had no medical background and often caused her mother to cough violently and resist when using a traditional suction device because she could not judge the insertion depth, resulting in incomplete suctioning. Grandma Li had recurrent low-grade fever and was diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia.

[0069] The core pain points of home care are safety and ease of use. Non-professionals cannot master the "feel" of intubation; inserting the tube too deeply can cause a violent laryngeal reflex, while inserting it too superficially will have no effect and cause the patient great suffering.

[0070] The suction device of Embodiment 2 of this invention (with pressure feedback and depth calibration) was introduced. Ms. Wang slowly pressed down the piston and inserted the suction tube, closely monitoring the three-color LED indicator at the base of the handle. When the indicator changed from yellow to a stable green, accompanied by a short beep, she immediately stopped inserting the tube. The system indicated that the cuff had reached the optimal position under the soft palate. She noted the mark "14.5cm" protruding from the mouth at this point. From then on, each time she suctioned sputum, she only needed to insert the suction tube to this mark to ensure accurate positioning. Grandma Li's coughing reaction significantly decreased, and she became more cooperative. Ms. Wang's confidence in operating the device greatly increased, and the thoroughness of suctioning improved. After one month of continuous care, Grandma Li did not experience any further lung infections.

[0071] This invention transforms a professional medical procedure into a standardized and reproducible home care skill through "electronic guidance" and "physical calibration," achieving a leap from "having" to "excellent" quality in home care.

[0072] Case 3: A 3-year-old child with severe asthma and respiratory syncytial virus infection had excessive airway secretions, requiring frequent suctioning. However, the child was extremely uncooperative, crying and struggling every time suctioning was performed, and traditional suction catheters could easily damage the delicate nasal and pharyngeal mucosa.

[0073] Children have narrow airways and fragile mucous membranes, making them sensitive to irritation. Traditional suctioning can easily cause mucosal edema and bleeding, and improper negative pressure control may trigger laryngospasm.

[0074] The pediatric-specific model of this invention (Example 1) was used. Its cuff is softer, and the suction catheter is thinner. The catheter is inserted orally, completely avoiding damage to the nasal mucosa caused by nasal manipulation. After the cuff inflates, it not only seals the nasopharynx, but its soft texture also acts as a cushion, reducing direct friction between the suction catheter and the posterior pharyngeal wall. Its stabilizing effect also prevents catheter displacement and mucosal abrasion due to the child's crying. The nurse observed a reduction in the child's resistance, and no significant congestion or edema in the pharynx after the procedure. The suctioning process was smoother, and no laryngospasm occurred.

[0075] This invention, through "oral approach" and "airbag cushioning," significantly improves the safety and tolerance of the procedure for pediatric patients, a special group, while ensuring efficacy.

[0076] Case 4: A patient carrying carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) was isolated and treated in the ICU. Their respiratory secretions were a significant source of infection, and suctioning was a high-risk procedure for aerosol generation and pathogen spread.

[0077] When traditional suction devices are used, the negative pressure causes a large amount of bacteria-containing aerosols to escape from the open nasal cavity, polluting the environment and medical staff.

[0078] Strict isolation measures were implemented when using this invention for sputum suction. Before suctioning, the air bag reliably sealed the nasopharyngeal passage. Following this procedure, the detection rate of CRAB in air-sedimentation culture dishes placed at the patient's bedside and on the protective suits of medical staff was zero. The same bacteria had been detected in culture dishes a week earlier after using a traditional suction device.

[0079] In summary, this invention is not a simple improvement on existing technologies, but rather, through the core technology of "airbag timing control," it successfully integrates infection prevention into the operational process, enhances negative pressure efficiency based on physical principles, anchors operational safety in structural design, and realizes convenient application through control logic. It not only significantly improves the effectiveness and safety of suctioning procedures themselves, but also broadens its application scenarios and demonstrates potential rehabilitation and data value, fully reflecting its outstanding technological innovation and broad clinical application prospects.

[0080] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A portable suction device, characterized in that: It includes a manual suction device (1), a suction tube (2) and a trachea (3); a long strip-shaped elastic air bag (4) is fitted on the suction tube (2) corresponding to the soft palate (6); one end of the suction tube (2) is connected to the manual suction device (1); one end of the trachea (3) is connected to the elastic air bag (4) and the other end is connected to the manual suction device (1); in the initial stage of suctioning sputum by the manual suction device (1), the elastic air bag (4) is inflated through the trachea (3) to make it expand, causing the soft palate (6) to rise and close the nasopharyngeal passage.

2. The portable suction device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The manual suction device (1) includes a cylindrical cylinder (11) and a piston (12) disposed inside the cylindrical cylinder (11); the piston (12) is vertically and slidably fitted with the cylindrical cylinder (11); the cylindrical cylinder (11) is provided with an inlet (13) at the upper end, an outlet (14) on the side near the upper part, an inflation port (15) on the side near the lower part, and a ventilation hole (10) at the lower end; the suction tube (2) is detachably connected to the inlet (13); the trachea (3) is detachably connected to the inflation port (15).

3. A portable suction device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A plug (16) is detachably installed on the sputum discharge port (14).

4. A portable suction device according to claim 2, characterized in that: Inside the cylindrical cylinder (11), multiple stop rods (17) are provided above the piston (12) to limit the initial position of the piston (12).

5. A portable suction device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The stop rod (17) is magnetically attracted to the piston (12).

6. A portable suction device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The initial position of the piston (12) after being stopped by the stop rod (17) is level with the sputum discharge port (14).

7. A portable suction device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The air inlet (15) is located below the piston (12) in the initial position; the distance from the air inlet (15) to the bottom of the cylindrical body (11) is slightly less than the thickness of the piston (12).

8. A portable suction device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sputum inlet (13) is provided with a first one-way valve (18) that allows sputum to enter the cylindrical cylinder (11); the top of the cylindrical cylinder (11) is provided with a second one-way valve (19) that allows air to be discharged.

9. A portable suction device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A push-pull rod (5) is vertically and slidingly connected to a piston (12) at one end and a handle (51) at the other end.

10. A method of using a portable suction device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Step 1, Assembly preparation: Securely connect one end of the suction tube (2) to the sputum inlet (13) at the upper end of the cylindrical cylinder (11) of the manual suction device (1); connect one end of the trachea (3) to the air inlet (15) at the lower part of the cylindrical cylinder (11). Step 2, Positioning and Insertion: The operator slowly inserts the suction tube (2) into the oral cavity and guides it into the trachea, with the elastic air bag (4) positioned below the soft palate (6); Step 3: Start suction and inflate the air bladder: The operator presses down the piston (12) with the push-pull rod (5), pushing some airflow out through the ventilation tube (10), and most of the gas enters the elastic air bladder (4) through the trachea (3), causing the elastic air bladder (4) to inflate and push the soft palate (6) upward, causing the soft palate (6) to close the nasopharyngeal passage; during this process, the cylindrical cylinder (11) above the piston (12) generates negative pressure, which loosens the sputum through the suction tube (2); Step 4: Continue to press down to suction: The piston (12) continues to press down, sealing the inflation port (15). The elastic air bag (4) no longer expands, and all the gas is discharged from the ventilation tube (10). As the piston (12) continues to press down, the suction tube (2) begins to suction the pharynx of the patient and sucks the pharynx into the cylindrical cylinder (11) through the pharynx inlet (13). Step 5, pull back the piston: After the piston (12) reaches the bottom of the cylindrical body (11), the operator pulls the piston (12) up through the push-pull rod (5). The air in the cylindrical body (11) above the piston (12) is discharged through the second one-way valve (19); negative pressure is generated in the cylindrical body (11) below the piston (12). When the inflation port (15) reappears, the air in the elastic air bag (4) is extracted, so that the elastic air bag (4) returns to its flattened state, the soft palate (6) returns, and the nasopharyngeal passage is reopened; when the piston (12) is pulled back to the stop bar (17), a suction cycle is completed. Step Six: Repeat the suctioning cycle: The operator repeatedly performs steps three through five to achieve suctioning; Step 7: After suctioning, remove the plug (16) at the sputum discharge port (14) and discharge the sputum in the cylindrical cylinder (11) and process it.

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